Forney F1 - fuselage tank has dropped

Bought a 1958 Forney F1 last May and recently felt a slight restriction on the control column.  Emptied the tank and with a bore scope discovered a baffle had come loose allowing the front of the tank to sage.  Putting pressure on the tank allowed it to flex and was tin canning. We discovered there is no way to move the tank in any direction to allow greater clearance.  The tank does not leak but replacing it will cost around $4000.00 Canadian.  My mechanic is willing to take on the task of removing/repairing/replacing it.  Has anyone experienced this problem and can suggest a fix?